Q500 Sonicator

Overview

The Q500 is a powerful, 500 watt ultrasonic processor featuring programmable operation and a digital display of operating parameters. Suitable applications include nanoparticle dispersion, creating emulsions, cell lysis and homogenization.

Adjustable pulse On and Off times can be programmed from 1 second to 1 minute. Total programming has a maximum setting of 10 hours. A wide variety of probes and accessories are available to handle virtually any application.

• Programmable operation - Set time and amplitude for hands free operation
• Pulse mode - Prevent heat buildup in temperature sensitive samples
• Digital amplitude / intensity control - Output intensity can be set from 20-100%
• Elapsed time indicator - Displays duration of sonication
• Display of wattage and joules - Real-time energy monitoring
• Overload protection - Prevents damage to circuitry if a fault occurs
• RoHS compliant - Uses lead free components

The Q500 Sonicator can be purchased with or without a standard 1/2” diameter probe with replaceable tip.  A variety of probe / horn options are available; please click the button below for horns and other accessories or click here for standard probes.

Please note: There is a 2 - 3 week lead time on all Sonicator units.  Expedited processing, which decreases the lead time to 5 days, is offered for an additional $150. A stand is not included with purchase.

Key Attributes

Manufacturer Specifications

• Power Rating: 500 watts
• Frequency: 20 kHz
• Programmable Timer: 10 hours
• Adjustable Pulse On/Off: 1 second to 1 minute
• Dimensions: 8″ W x 15.25″ L x 8.5″ H
• Voltage: 110V, 50/60Hz

FAQ

Does the Q500 have any mechanism such as RS232 that would allow it to be controlled by a computer?

While the Q500 does not have RS232, it does have a 9-pin D-sub connector to a programmable logic controller. The connector has the following configuration:

I have a high-temperature application. What is the maximum temperature that I can operate the probe in?

The probe itself can withstand temperatures as high as 140°F / 60°C. Higher temperature applications can be accommodated, but they require a custom probe. Please contact us with the details of your application to see if a special probe can be designed for it.

What are the probes made of?

Titanium alloy Ti-6Al-4V.

How viscous of a substance can a Sonicator homogenize?

A good rule of thumb is if you can’t pour it then you can’t sonicate it. Substances with approximately the viscosity of honey (around 4000 cps) are the most viscous substances that a Sonicator can effectively process.

Is the Q500 UL listed or CSA approved?

Not explicitly, but all Sonicators are cTUVus certified. This certification combines the common UL and CSA standards for electronic equipment and is accepted as equivalent for most regulatory purposes.

What is the difference between the Q500 Sonicator and the Q700 Sonicator?

There are three main differences. The first is the wattage. The Q700 is a 700 watt system while the Q500 is a 500 watt system. While this does not have a practical effect for small probes (microtip probes, for instance), the Q700 can achieve a higher amplitude when using larger probes, especially high-gain horns. Higher amplitude means a more vigorous processing of your sample. The extra power is also be useful when processing more viscous materials, as the additional resistance may limit the amplitude which can be achieved.

The second difference is full amplitude control from 1-100% in the Q700. The Q500 can only be set from 20-100%, so if you have a need for very gentle processing, the Q700 may be a better choice.
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​The last difference is the display and control panel. The Q500 has a small, two-color display with push-button control panel, while the Q700 has a full color touchscreen interface that has slightly more programmable settings and can save programs.

How frequently does the ultrasonic horn (probe) need to be replaced?

Unfortunately that doesn't have a set answer. There are too many variables that effect the life of a horn and Qsonica has never done a study on the life span of a horn. Under light use and an application that is easy on the horn, an ultrasonic horn might last years. With continuous use and an unfavorable application, it might only last days.

The life span of a horn is dependent on multiple factors, including but not limited to:

• The presence of solids. Particulate will wear the horn. The larger, harder, and more concentrated the particulate, the faster the wear.
• Acidic solutions will wear the horn faster than neutral or basic solutions.
• Using the probe at higher amplitude will wear the horn faster.
• The size of the probe. Smaller diameter horns wear faster than large ones, as they operate at higher amplitudes and have less titanium available to wear.

Ultimately, you will need to empirically determine how long your horn will last in your application. You'll know it needs replacing when your processing starts to become less efficient.

What is the maximum continuous operating time for Q500?

Overheating will damage the converter. If continuous operation for more than 15 minutes is required, then the user has to air cool the converter and then it can be programmed to run for maximum 10 hours.

How to control the Q500 with a programmable logic controller (PLC)?

This can be done using the 9pin connector on the back of the Q500 system. This is the only way to externally control the system.